Board Members

Chair

Dirk van Loon is one of the founders of the Harrison Lewis Centre. Originally from Vermont, Dirk moved to Port Joli in 1970 where he pursued the art of writing, with the creation of DvL Publishing in Liverpool and its magazine, Rural Delivery. Dirk runs the homestead neighbouring the Harrison Lewis Centre, which includes several chickens, at times pigs or cattle and a large garden. Guests of the Centre will often visit at Dirk’s to see how a small-scale farming operation is not so out of reach. There is much to learn from Dirk's long-time experience living in Sandy Bay.

SECRETARY

Kaitlyn Harris lives in Lunenburg on a beautiful old side-hill farm and is an assistant manager with Ocean Bridge, an organization that promotes ocean conservation. Kaitlyn brings her programming expertise to the board and has hands-on experience in Sandy Bay as she’s previously worked at the Centre in 2018. Kaitlyn is never hesitant to tackle most any job or to get her hands dirty.

Treasurer

Nick Lenco is an attorney based in Liverpool.  His background in law is an invaluable asset to the board. Nick’s dedication to his work, as well as his honesty and thoroughness are essential qualities in a board member, it is no wonder he sits on a handful of other boards! As treasurer, Nick oversees the boards financial assets and responsibilities.

Willem van Loon is a forester working in Vermont. For the past several months, Wim has taken on an early-morning task looking after steeds at a neighbouring riding stable. Wim was born in Nova Scotia, spent much of his early life here and is passionate about saving this piece of Nova Scotia from exploitation — which is why he placed his sizable share of Sandy Bay beach in the hands of Nature Conservancy Canada. His support, advice, and critique have been invaluable.